Juventus manager Andrea Pirlo has dropped a hint over a move for Chelsea star Olivier Giroud, claiming that he would be a handy signing for the Bianconeri.
Speaking to DAZN, as relayed by Goal.com, Juventus manager Andrea Pirlo has backed his club to make a move for Chelsea’s French striker Olivier Giroud in the January transfer window.
The 34-year-old has been with Chelsea for three years, having arrived from London rivals Arsenal in the winter window of 2018. While not always a regular starter, Giroud has been a great asset for the Blues, chipping in with vital goals be it under Antonio Conte, Maurizio Sarri or current manager Frank Lampard.
Giroud started the 2020/21 campaign behind new signing Timo Werner and Tammy Abraham in the pecking order at Chelsea. However, the 34-year-old has forced his way back into the side with some brilliant performances, scoring nine goals in 15 matches across all competitions so far.
Giroud’s contract with Chelsea runs out at the end of the ongoing campaign and his lack of game-time in the past had led to speculation over his future beyond the January transfer window. However, the 2018 FIFA World Cup winner with France had recently hinted that he would see the season through with the Blues.
But, that has not stopped Juventus boss Pirlo to look at him as a potential target in the January transfer window. When quizzed about a possible move for Giroud, he said, “He’d be handy! The window opens tomorrow, we already discussed with the club what we want to do and if there are any opportunities. Maybe a striker that can rotate with our strikers.”
As things stand, Pirlo has Cristiano Ronaldo, Paulo Dybala and former Chelsea star Alvaro Morata as his options upfront. However, Dybala has been used sparingly by the Italian tactician, leading to uncertainty over his future at the club. And, judging by his comments, the Juventus manager is eyeing up a move for Giroud this month.
The Bianconeri are not the only club interested in the veteran striker. La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid have identified Giroud as a possible replacement for Diego Costa, who recently terminated his contract with the club. It remains to be seen if either club end up making a move for the Chelsea ace before the end of the month.
